David John Cunniffe, age 71, of East Chop, died at home on June 12 after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his loving family at the time of his death.

David was born on Dec. 2, 1939 to the late John and Maureen Cunniffe in the Bronx, N.Y. He was predeceased by his sister, Meg, and brothers, Donald and Jack.

He graduated from Mount Saint Michaels Academy and attended St. Bonaventure University. He was a member of Local 12 in New York city for 42 years.

He is survived by the love of his life, Judy, whom he began dating at the age of 13. They were planning on celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in September of this year.

He sadly leaves behind his children and grandchildren, who adored him: Susan, Patrick and Jack Garrett of East Chop; David, Diana, David Robert and Colin Cunniffe of Wake Forest, N.C.; John, Melissa, Eliza and Charlie Cunniffe of South Salem, N.Y.; Kevin Cunniffe of Boston; and Casey, Jennifer, Finn, Kiera and Isla Cunniffe of Norwalk, Conn.

David loved to go fishing, spend time working in his gardens, and cooking great meals for his friends and family with his loyal dog, Beau, by his side.

He enjoyed time with friends at the First and Third Club, and at the East Chop Yacht, Tennis and Beach Club.

A visitation will be held at the Chapman Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown Vineyard Road, Oak Bluffs today, Tuesday, June 14, from 6 to 8 p.m.

David’s funeral Mass will celebrated on Wednesday, June 15, 11 a.m. at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, Massasoit avenue in Oak Bluffs.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Martha’s Vineyard Cancer Support Group, PO Box 2214, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, or Island Hospice, P.O. Box 4188, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.